Forums > Areas > Jalisco's Lake Chapala Region

Rene J.

Oct 25, 2002, 10:44 AM

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Rental Observation!!

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When one is looking for a Condo/House/Apartment Rental and a price is quoted, don't take it for granted that the rental price quoted includes all of the ammenities, ie; gas, electricity, Cable/Sat TV, etc,. Be specific when enquiring about the premises. The price of $ 500 USDollars sure jumps up quickly.

This note is especially mentioned for those "First Timers" to the area and renting.

lucy

Oct 26, 2002, 2:58 AM

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Re: [Rene J.] Rental Observation!!

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You are right. It is important to make a list and get everything taken care of in front. I found, with a rental in Ajijic, a deal is seldom a deal. The landlord will sometimes change his mind in mid stream even if a written deal is made. He may decide not to pay for electric, not let you use the garage, furnish kitchen utencils, supply cable, etc. He figures he has you now..

It may seem like a good idea when he was looking for a tenant but when he feels he has you, it may change. I suggest that you accept everything "as is " when you move in. There are few chances things will improve after. This seemed true with Mexican and Gringo landlords.

Now deposits are another discussion...

Jeannie

Oct 26, 2002, 7:38 AM

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Re: [Rene J.] Rental Observation!!

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Newcommers should also be aware that any "legal" document written in English is not worth the paper it is printed on. All legal documents that you sign should be in Spanish. Now this can work to your advantage or against it, depending on how you want to look at it.

Three times I have rented homes here and all three times the utilities were completely spelled out. I would have grave doubts about renting a home where the landlord is supposed to pay for the utilities. That puts too much power in his hands and can be used to force you out of a place.

On the other hand, if a landlord wants you out, rental agreement or not, I would be moving as soon as possible. It's just not worth the harrassement you could face.

All of this being said, 99% of the time people have no problems with rentals here.